Officers and staff recognised at Staffordshire Association for Women in Policing awards
By Liana Snape 22nd Apr 2026
Staffordshire Police recognised the achievements of officers and staff at the recent Staffordshire Association for Women in Policing (SAWP) awards.
The ceremony took place on Thursday (16 April) at the Staffordshire Police headquarters in Stafford, with the awards presented by Deputy Chief Constable Caroline Marsh.
The event saw 19 individuals receive awards in categories such as bravery, excellence in performance, leadership and lifetime achievements.
Deputy Chief Constable, Caroline Marsh, said: "Each award recipient has shown tireless dedication and unwavering commitment in keeping Staffordshire safe.
"Their relentless drive and determination is a testament to their characters and passion for public service."
PCSO Leanne Sharratt and PCSO Charlotte Carrington each received a bravery award for their 'courage, professionalism and dedication' during a high-risk incident on a bridge over the A50 in July last year.
Staffordshire Police said: "The incident saw them respond immediately to a man in crisis, prioritising his and the public's safety."
Detective Sergeant Claire Mace received an Excellence in Performance award for her work in a serious and complex investigation following the death of a three-month-old baby in 2021.
Claire's work was praised as 'meticulous' by the Crown Prosecution Service as she carried out 'remarkable' work to help bring those responsible to justice in 2025.
An Excellence in Performance award was also presented to Detective Constable Rachel Hurst for her work in uncovering a large-scale drugs conspiracy involving serious assaults and modern-day slavery in 2023.
This resulted in a number of individuals pleading guilty to offences and being jailed for more than 12 years.
The Staff Member of the Year award was presented to Karen Banner, a former officer with more than 30 years' experience who has spent the last four years working as an expert within child safeguarding practice reviews.
Staffordshire Police explained that she has spent those four years "striving to secure better outcomes for children; further strengthening the safeguarding practices across Staffordshire Police and partner agencies".
Special Constable Victoria Bains won a Special Constabulary award for her almost six years of service, carried out while also holding a separate career and managerial role.
A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police said: "Since 2020, SC Bains has carried out more than 1,400 hours of service for Staffordshire, bringing her calm professionalism to often unpredictable situations."
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